The island nation has been hit hard by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials reported that the massive storm triggered extensive flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, prompting the evacuation of millions of people nationwide.
Extensive Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, emergency crews recorded rising waters reaching rooftop levels and residences washed out by the powerful currents.
Our team saved fourteen people stranded on the roof engulfed in flood in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, authorities announced two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The super typhoon was downgraded to a typhoon on Monday morning while moving over the Philippines’ largest island, home to the national capital.
Per the state weather service, the storm’s sustained wind speed decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening as it moves in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately thousands of shelters were activated to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Environmental Factors
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, that claimed hundreds of lives with another 135 missing prior to advancing toward Vietnam, where it killed five.
Searches for the missing persons were halted recently over risks to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to impact the nation this year.
Scientists report that the rate of intense cyclones hitting the Philippines has increased doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates suggest that intense storms result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration last week because of the extensive devastation from Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
